Viral

How to Keep Cut Flowers Fresh

Published

8 months ago

July 26, 2022

sylvia J

If you don’t take adequate care of your fresh cut flowers, they may droop and die before their time. Sophy Crown Flowers Dublin’s senior florist shares tips on how to keep flowers looking their best.

How to make cut flowers stay longer.

How can cut flowers be kept fresh for as long as possible? To keep your cut flowers fresh, follow these tips from flower farmers. You’ll also learn about the best flower varieties to plant in your own backyard.

Picking Fresh Flowers at the Right Time of Year

Cut garden flowers early in the morning or early evening, when temperatures are cold and the stalks are full with water. When exposed to the intense heat of midday, plants become more susceptible to wilting.

For most flowers, avoid choosing them when in full bloom because they won’t stay as long; pick them when they are just starting to show colour. (Note: This isn’t true of roses, which do not continue to develop.)

How to Cut Flowers Outside in the Garden

Always use a sharp knife. Steer clear of scissors, which might damage the plant’s water passages.

As soon as the stems are cut, place them in a bucket of clean, tepid water (not cold water).

If possible, put the flowers in their bucket of water in a cool, dark area for a few hours to help them stabilise before arranging. Even better, leave them overnight.

Keep flowers as cool as possible, but avoid placing them in your fridge if you can. Florists’ coolers range from 33° to 40°F, so your fridge certainly won’t be cool enough and any fruit or vegetables could generate ethylene gas, which shortens the life of cut flowers.

How to Pick a Vase

Pick the appropriate container for the job. Always use a fresh vase for your flowers, one that has been well washed and is free of any detergent or residue. A taller vase is better suited to cut flowers that are more delicate and light in weight. Reduce the height of large blooms and place them in a low vase to allow them to spread out.

Use a vase with a broad opening to allow for enough air circulation and enough space for all the stems.

Always use a fully clean vase, as bacteria can survive in filthy vases and your flowers may not last as long.

Tips on How to Cut Flowers for a Vase

Strip all the leaves from the lowest half to two-thirds of each stem. Do not leave any leaves below the water line, as they could decay and harm the quality of the water.
Before putting the flowers in water, trim the stems by two inches. The cleanest cut can be achieved with garden shears, although standard scissors will also work. Make 45-degree cuts on the stems to increase surface area and improve water flow. Some flowers, like roses, tend to develop air bubbles lodged in their stems, preventing water flow. To prevent this issue, cut the flower stalks underwater.
Maintain your flowers consistently. Replace dirty vase water with fresh water and clean your vase every single day. Dirty water can cause to bacterial growth that will swiftly result on wilting. To aid in water absorption, trim your flower stems every two to three days.
Re-cut the stems at an angle. A slanted cut helps if you are using floral foam; a stem with a point is easier to place. Cut flower stems at an angle also avoids the stem from resting on the bottom of the vase and sealing itself over. Angular cuts also provide a bigger surface area for water uptake.
Cut stems underwater if you wish to trim the stems of cut flowers before arranging them; otherwise, the stem can take in too much air, generating a blockage that keeps water from the bloom. (This is especially true with roses.) Underwater cutters are available from floral supply companies, or you can cut a flower in the yard, instantly submerge the stem in warm water, and cut it again in the house while holding it below the water line.
Poppies, milkweed, and other flowers with milky stems should be held in a flame for about 15 seconds immediately after cutting. This closes the latex in the stem but keeps the water-conducting channels open. Without searing, the latex ingredient can leak into the water and causing it to degrade soon. Other flowers in the vase may also suffer as a result.
Crush the stems at your peril. If you have a woody stem—on lilacs, for example—just cut above the stem. Flowers have been crushing stems with mallets for years. In fact, hammering the stems causes the stems decay faster in the water. If you can’t cut above the woody stem, soak the entire stem in water for 20 minutes to an hour before cutting.
Keep cut flowers out of hostile conditions. Refrain from placing your fresh flowers in direct sunlight, near hot appliances, or near gusts of air from fans, air conditioning, or open windows. Tulips, for example, are highly heat-sensitive. Fresh fruit generates traces of ethylene gas, which can accelerate the wilting process of cut flowers.
Make sure the water is at the proper temperature. Most flowers do best in room-temperature water. Bulb blossoms endure the longest in cool or even cold water. Fill your vase to three-quarters full and keep topping it off as the flowers absorb more liquid, whether you’re using cold or lukewarm water.
Use only warm or hot water. In order to thrive, flowers need a temperature range of 80° to 110° Fahrenheit. The water in the vase does not need to be maintained at that temperature, but always start cut flowers in warm, not cold, water. Cold water has a higher oxygen content, which can cause air bubbles to grow in the stems of your flowers, preventing their water uptake. Spring bulbs such as tulips and daffodils are the exception to this rule, as they prefer to be immersed in cold water.
Make acidic water available.
Cut flowers do best in slightly acidic water, particularly with a pH level between 3.5 and 5.0.
Make your own flower food. If you don’t want to spend money on flower food, make your own at home. Traditionally, three parts water, one part Sprite (for sugar), and a few drops of bleach are combined to make the most popular vase-cleansing solution. Another traditional flower food recipe is to mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, two tablespoons of sugar, and half a teaspoon of bleach into a quart of water.
Feed the blossoms with a tablespoon of sugar. Some florists use a dash of bleach to limit bacterial development (about a quarter teaspoon per litre of water) (just a quarter teaspoon per litre of water). In both cases, the flower’s lifespan is extended.
Nurture your flowers with a flower food package. Florists and supermarkets supply pre-packaged combinations of all the key preservatives that make cut flowers survive. A biocide is included in these flower food packets in order to kill unwanted germs as well as provide a balanced pH level for the water.
Prune any leaves below the waterline. Any leaves immersed underwater might rot and create bacterial development, so it’s crucial to routinely check your flowers and remove any underwater leaves.
Display the bouquet away from full light, heat, or hot and cold gusts. Place the vase far enough away from fruit bowls to avoid spills.
Every day, make sure the vase is still there. Keep the healthy blooms free of bacteria by getting rid of any dead or fading blossoms.
Change the water every few days, replenishing any flower food as well.
Vodka helps to slow down the wilting process. Delaying the ageing of your cut flowers is possible by adding a little alcohol to the mix. The alcohol in vodka blocks flowers from generating ethylene gas, which is what makes flowers wither.
Different harmful flowers into separate containers.
Toxic compounds released by freshly cut hyacinths, iris, and daffodils can harm other aquatic plants. For a day, isolate these flowers from other kinds of flowers and place them in a separate container.

Which Flowers Are Best for Cutting?

Most people have heard of cut Dianthus flowers, which include Carnations, Pinks, and Sweet Williams. 14 to 21 days is about right!
Oriental Lilies, for example, are a long-lasting flower that can be displayed for up to ten days. When trimming lilies in the garden, leave a third of the lower stem. Daylilies (which are not genuine lilies) are not cut flowers; they don’t endure more than one day.
Sunflowers and gladiolus both have a vase life of 7 to 10 days, and both make beautiful cut flowers.
This flower’s life expectancy is around a week.
Tulips may stay fresh in a vase for up to one week, and even beyond that time, they’ll continue to bloom. (The sap from some flowers, like daffodils, might diminish the vase life of other flowers. (Tulips don’t mix with daffodils.)
Peonies last 5 to 7 days. In order to avoid damaging the young plants, only a few blooms from each peony plant should be harvested.)
Sweet peas endure 3 to 7 days and give wonderful height to a flower arrangement. The more you trim your sweet peas in the garden, the more they will bloom!

Here are reader favourites from the flower cutting garden:

Nerine, tulips, peonies, safflowers and salvia bloom from May through July.
July to September: Sunflowers, Zinnia, Cosmos, Rudbeckia, Dahlias, Stock, Asters, Statice, Amaranthus

Is There a Shelf Life for Cut Flowers?

A variety of factors, including species and quality, influence how long cut flowers last after being removed from their stems. Fresh cut flowers from your garden can go immediately into a vase, preserving optimum freshness. Cut flowers from the grocery store or a flower delivery service may be fresh, or they may have languished in a warehouse for days.

Consider chrysanthemums, carnations, alstroemeria, lis, hydrangeas, and clematis if you want long-lasting flowers. This bouquet should last for at least ten days when placed in fresh water. Chrysanthemums have been known to endure upwards of four weeks, which causes some florists to consider them the greatest flower for indoor vases. Other flower species like lilacs, daisies, and peonies survive a substantially shorter time—usually three to seven days, depending on the type.

Plucking Flowers Is Better Than Cutting Them Is it?

The vase life of your fresh garden flowers can be extended by cutting them instead of plucking them when you bring them inside. When you cut a flower at a 45-degree angle using clean garden shears, you offer a vast surface area for the stem to absorb water in a vase. The flower’s surface area is reduced when it is picked.

Cut flowers in the morning or evening when the blossom holds optimum moisture. If you cut your flowers at noon, they will have a shorter vase life because the air is drier. Then immediately put your fresh flowers from the garden in warm water until you’re ready to place them in a floral arrangement.

The longer you keep your cut flower arrangements, the more enjoyment you’ll have from them. What advice do you have to offer? Share it with us in the space provided!

Viral

Different Keg Coupler Types: How to Pick the Right One?

Published

2 days ago

March 27, 2023

sylvia J

Keg Coupler is one of the most important components of the draft beer system. It is designed to be installed on a specific type of keg valve and is used to connect the keg to the beer dispensing system.

The choice of the right type of keg coupler is crucial as different types of couplings are required for different beer varieties.

After reading our article, you will learn about all the main types of connectors, as well as understand which of them is worth purchasing for your production.

What Are the Different Types of Keg Couplers?

If you produce several different beer varieties, then probably you have heard that you may need different types of couplers.

It is impossible not to wonder: why not make a universal type of connector that will be suitable for most kegs?

The fact is that most types of keg couplers were developed long before globalization. However, when beer from different countries became available worldwide, the companies producing these beverages did not change anything in their production.

Modern consumers, therefore, have to work with several models of keg couplers.

To date, brewers use such types of keg couplers:

D-type

This is the most common type of barrel connector, which is also known as the American Sankey connector. It is used for most American beers, such as Budweiser, Yuengling, Molson, Coors, Miller and PBR, which are usually served with lower levels of carbonization.

This coupling has a lever handle and operates at a pressure of 30 to 50 pounds per square inch. It connects to the valve on the barrel and pumps the beer through the hose and tap. One of the main characteristics of the D-type connector is its ease of use, which makes it a popular choice for many bars and pubs.

S-type

This type of coupling is also known as the European Sankey. It is used to serve most European beers such as Heineken, Stella Artois, Pilsner Urquell and Newcastle Brown Ale.

The device has a specific geometric shape with a curved handle, which makes it easy to identify.

The main difference between D and S-type is the shape of the tube: the American model has a wider and shorter tube, while the European model has a longer and narrower one.

U-type

This connector is designed specifically for serving Guinness, Harp Lager, Smithwick’s, Magners Cider and other Irish nitrogen beers.

The coupling has a well-type connection and is usually made of stainless steel.

A-type

This connector is also known as the German slider. As you may have guessed, it is used for almost all German and some Belgian beers: Hoegaarden, Ayinger, Franziskaner, Bitburger Pilsner, Krombacher, Löwenbräu, etc.

The device features a characteristic cylindrical shape with two pins that fix it to the keg valve.

G-Type

This coupler has an unusual triangular shape. It is used by several British, American and Dutch breweries, such as Anchor, Fuller’s and Grolsch, and other lager and low carbonation beer brands.

Manufacturers have introduced this connector to make it easier to distinguish kegs and not to get confused in production.

M-type

It is the least common coupling model used for some German beers such as Einbecker and Schneider, and other alcoholic beverages with high levels of carbonization.

It is equipped with a metal tube that pierces the barrel valve and closes the lines of gas and liquid.

Which Keg Coupler Do You Need?

Most couplers come with a list of compatible kegs, so you need to check in advance which type of keg you are using.

The use of an inappropriate type of keg coupler can lead to several different problems.

The coupling may not be properly fixed, making it impossible to open the barrel or leading to the leakage of the beverage.
The coupling may be incompatible with the safety valve on the keg, potentially resulting in an increase in pressure and even an explosion.
An inappropriate connector type can also prevent proper beer dispensing from the barrel, which can negatively affect the taste or texture of the drink.

That is why it is so important to make sure that you use the right connector with which you do not have to worry about any of these potential problems.

To help you find the optimal model, we recommend contacting the popular company Beverage Craft. This brand has long been working with various beer equipment and knows exactly which type of keg coupler will fit your keg and the beer variety.

There are 6 types of couplings: you can be sure that Beverage Craft consultants will advise the device that is designed for your barrel type.

And representatives of the brand will gladly tell you how to connect the coupler to the barrel, so you can serve visitors of your establishment tasty, aromatic and fresh beer.

Viral

Propane Boiler vs Oil Boiler: Pros & Cons

Published

6 days ago

March 24, 2023

sylvia J

Are you considering replacing your old boiler with a new propane or oil-fired model? If so, you’re likely weighing the pros and cons of each type.

In this article, we will compare propane boiler vs oil boiler units to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

We’ll discuss their efficiency rating, cost of installation, maintenance requirements, environmental impact, and more.

Read on to learn more about these two popular types of heating systems so you can decide which is best for your home.

If you need help installing or repairing your boiler, you can always rely on a professional HVAC company, like Clover Services, for assistance.

Pros and Cons of Propane Boilers

Like all products, propane boilers have their fair share of pros and cons. If you’re on the fence about propane boiler vs oil boiler units, be sure to take these advantages and disadvantages into consideration.

Some of the propane boilers include:

High-Efficiency Rating:Propane boilers are extremely efficient, with an energy efficiency rating of up to 95%. This makes them ideal for those looking to reduce their energy costs and lower their carbon footprint.
Quick Installation:Installing a propane boiler is typically a quick process that can be completed in just one day, so you won’t need to wait long before you can start enjoying the benefits.
Low Maintenance Requirements:Unlike oil-fired systems which require regular maintenance and cleaning, propane boilers require very little upkeep or servicing other than occasional filter changes and replacing worn parts if necessary.

Some of the cons of propane boilers include:

Costly Initial Investment:Although you will save money on future energy bills due to the high-efficiency rating of propane boilers, they do come at an initial cost higher than oil-fired models making them not suitable for every budget initially.
Fuel Availability Dependent on Location:Depending on where you live you may struggle to find a reliable source of fuel for your propane boiler as it is not available everywhere in the United States unlike oil boilers which have more widespread availability throughout most states.

Be sure to keep these things in mind if you’re on the fence about getting a propane vs oil boiler unit for your home.

Pros and Cons of Oil Boilers

Oil boilers are another popular option for heating systems, offering some advantages compared to propane boilers.

Some of the pros of oil boilers include:

Low Initial Cost:Compared to propane boilers, oil-fired models have a much lower initial cost making them more affordable for those on a budget.
Widely Available Fuel Source:Unlike propane, you won’t need to worry about fuel availability with an oil boiler as you can get it almost everywhere in the United States so you can always keep your home warm no matter where you live.

Some of the cons of oil boilers include:

Lower Efficiency Rating than Propane Boilers:While still efficient compared to older models, oil boilers generally have ratings between 80% – 85% which is not quite as high as that offered by propane boilers (95%).
Environmental Concerns Related to Pollution from Burning Fuels:Although modern versions are much cleaner burning than their predecessors, burning fuel does release pollutants into the air so you must consider the environmental impacts of your choice if you are concerned about your carbon footprint.
Higher Maintenance Requirements:When it comes to the oil vs propane boiler debate, experts feel that oil boilers require more regular maintenance than propane boilers.

Propane Boiler vs Oil Boiler: Pros & Cons — Conclusion

Ultimately, you’ll need to weigh all of the pros and cons when deciding between a propane boiler and an oil boiler for your home.

Consider your budget, fuel availability in your area, environmental impacts, ease of installation, and maintenance requirements before making a decision. Doing so will help you pick the right model to keep you comfortable for years to come.

Viral

100 Watt Solar Panel Kits: How To Choose a Solar Installer

Published

2 months ago

January 21, 2023

sylvia J

A solar power system can reduce your carbon footprint, save money on your monthly electric bill, and give you the freedom to live off the grid entirely.

Choosing the right solar panels can be confusing, especially if you’re a beginner. Watt solar panel kits are convenient solutions that take some stings out of the process. If you opt for a solar panel kit, you’ll have a complete system at your fingertips.

However, choosing a company to install 100 watt solar panel kits can be just as challenging. So, how can you be sure that you are hiring the one that is the best for the job?

Keep reading to learn everything you have to know about how to choose the right solar installation contractor.

Overview of 100 Watt Solar Panel Kits

For producing renewable energy, 100 watt solar panel kits are the best choice. A charge controller and 6 or 8 solar panels are typically included in a package for a 100-watt panel.

It also comes with cables and connectors and often an inverter. It is enough to get you started on your green energy journey.

For those looking to power small electronic devices such as laptops and cellphones, the 100-watt kit is a great place to begin. But additional components may be necessary to charge more power-hungry devices.

This solar panel kit provides ample output to cover most home appliances. This includes washing machines, lights, and fans.

They are also easy to install, placed on rooftops, mounted on walls, or set on the ground. They are also designed for easy transportation and storage.

Understanding Your Needs for Solar Installation

Spend time determining your solar installation needs before choosing a solar installer for your solar panel package. Consider the size of your home and the layout of your roof.

Determine whether you would prefer a traditional solar panel installation or if you would like to go with a new and emerging technology such as a watts solar panel kit. Look at the panels’ size, shape, and style that you would need to fit into your home or business.

These considerations should provide you with enough information. This way, you can make an informed decision and choose the right solar installer that meets your needs.

How to Choose a Solar Installation Contractor

When choosing a solar installer for your 100 watt solar panels, there are a few essential factors to consider. These are the following:

Look for Qualifications and Certifications

When selecting a solar installer, it is essential to look for qualifications and certifications. An installer should be certified and licensed to install your solar panel system safely and effectively.

Ask for evidence of their credentials at all times, such as a manufacturer’s certificate or a NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). You must also verify it on the official certification website.

Ensure they know the installation, safety, and technological requirements for solar photovoltaic systems. Additionally, you should ask them detailed questions about their experience in the industry.

Ask how long they have been installing solar energy systems and how many systems they have installed in your area. You must also inquire about the types of systems they typically install.

Get Several Quotes From Different Companies

To acquire high-quality work, you must obtain numerous quotations from several businesses. A quote can give you an idea of the company offers competitive rates.

Asking for a quote and comparing the installation fees should be high on your list of priorities. Different installers will have additional fees depending on the quality of materials, equipment, and labor required. Examine the bids for the costs of the solar panels and the solar installer fees.

Additionally, the businesses you are considering should be able to show examples of their prior successful work. They must provide a list of qualified installers to carry out the work.

You should also ask questions regarding the suitability of their chosen materials and components. Make sure to ask specifically about what the environmental impact will be.

Ask for References

Check the reputation of the company you choose. You can do this by requesting references from recent customers.

Any experienced installer should be willing and able to provide references from customers who have had similar projects done in the past. Obtaining references will help you learn about the quality of the installer’s work. This will also let you know whether customers were satisfied with the level of customer service they received.

Look for a Valid Warranty

Warranties are an essential part of any solar installation. This should guarantee that all materials used in the installation are covered for some time.

The warranty should also guarantee that defects are corrected, and repair costs are covered. Additionally, a comprehensive warranty should cover routine maintenance to prevent the need for costly repairs over time. So, make sure to check out this link for additional reading on solar maintenance.

Benefits of Installing 100 Watt Solar Panels

The benefits of installing 100 Watt Solar Panels are numerous. Firstly, 100-watt solar panels are highly efficient. This means you can get the most out of your solar output.

Secondly, they offer a great way to reduce electricity bills. That’s because the panels will produce electricity for free. Also, 100-watt solar panels can last for a very long time. When maintained properly, they last 25 to 35 years.

Finally, they are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. This makes them an excellent option for people who want to go green without breaking the bank.

Choose the Best Solar Installer

Make sure to conduct thorough research before deciding on a solar installer. Ask questions to ensure you choose a certified, qualified, and experienced contractor.

Once you are done researching, the next step is to make a solar purchase. Start by browsing 100 watt solar panel kits to compare prices, performance, and quality.

The right installer will help you reap the full benefits of your solar decision. So what are you waiting for? Start your solar journey today and make the switch!

If you’ve found this article helpful, head back to our blog page now.